MM: I was always singing as a kid, but it wasn’t until I was 14 years old and entered a talent show. I sang “Don’t Cry For Me Argentina” and surprised everyone. I became know as the “kid with the voice” by my teachers. After that, I knew I wanted to be a professional singer.
2. NLE: What led you to perform in a cabaret venue?
MM: I grew up on Long Island not far from Port Jefferson where there was a theatre named Theatre Three. They had the main stage, a 400-seat theatre and a “Second Stage,” an intimate cabaret setting. I performed on the main stage in their musical productions and then was hired to sing for one of their “Second Stage” revues. We were a cast of six and I loved the intimacy of connecting to the audience. I was only 19 at the time. Another cast member, Doug, played the piano and thought we should put an act together. We did, but didn’t get very far, but I did at least get my feet wet. After that, I entered a contest at Freddy’s Supper Club and came in second place, which won me a one-night spot to perform my own show. I hired pianist/coach (the late) Marc Malamed, who I met during the contest and he helped me put a show together. From there, I auditioned for Jan Wallman, who booked me at Jan Wallman’s and then I auditioned for Helen Baldassare, who booked me at Don’t Tell Mama. That was back in late ’80s. And obviously, I haven’t stopped—and have no plans to.
3. NLE: Who were some of your early musical influences?
MM: As far as celebrities go, Barbra Streisand is my main influence and Liza Minnelli, Bette Midler and Donna Summer all played a role in influencing my early years. But I remember hanging out at Eighty Eights and seeing the shows of Sally Mayes, Annie Hughes and Phillip Officer and thinking I want to connect and give to my audiences, the way that they connect and give to their audiences.
4. NLE: What was your favorite gig ever?
MM: The first time I was booked at Feinstein’s at the Loews Regency. It felt very exciting that I was suddenly being taken seriously for doing what I love to do. I felt like I had arrived.
5. NLE: Who, or what, is your current motivator?
MM: I would have to say my inner spirit. I have to answer to myself and I need to be able to feel like I’m doing all I can to achieve my dream.
6 .NLE: When you’re alone, what music do you listen to?
MM: Well, when I’m learning new songs—that’s pretty much it. But, I go through phases when I have pockets of free time to listen. I’m currently loving the new Barbra album Walls and will listen to a range of artists from Lady Gaga to Nancy Wilson to Edith Piaf to Bruno Mars, as well as to show tunes to meditation music. I have a pretty eclectic taste in what I like.
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